Amid much emotion and with great success, on Friday, 16 December, the International Hellenic University honoured Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Emmanuel Kriaras, who is enjoying the 106th year of his life.

The event took place in a packed auditorium and was moderated by Professor of Law at AUTh, Athanasios Kaissis. The audience was welcomed by the Chairman of the IHU Governing Board, Professor Costas Grammenos CBE, DSc, and the Dean of the School of Humanities, Professor Vassilis Gounaris.

Speaking on "The lexicographical work of Emmanuel Kriaras", Associate Professor of Linguistics and Philosophy of Language at the University of Athens Spyros Moschonas underlined the crucial work and contribution of Emmanuel Kriaras to language and culture, not least through a lexicographical methodology which demonstrates the interlinking of the two. Professor and Chairman of the Greek Language Centre John Kazazis discussed the Medieval Dictionary of Emmanuel Kriaras. Finally, Professor of Law Athanassios Kaissis extolled the substantial contribution of Emmanuel Kriaras to the development of demotic legal language.

Following the award of a commemorative plaque by the Chairman of the IHU, Professor Kriaras addressed the audience, deeply moved: "My work is not the result of particular skills but of hard work, something I have loved deeply. One thing that has always given me strength and courage was that I am an active citizen, a man who is, and has always been, interested and concerned in public affairs".

The event closed with the warm words of former students and colleagues, who attended the International Hellenic University’s event to honour their teacher and mentor.

Click here to download the ceremony invitation.

Click here to view the photo gallery